Background and overview
In 1999, JR Kyushu developed Kiha72 series intercity diesel multiple unit
(DMU) train, branded New Yufuin no Mori, to replace Kiha183-1000 series
used on "Yufuin No Mori" intercity service.
Car body
The Kiha72 series looks somewhat similar to the Kiha71 series it is designed
to supplement, although there are a few minor differences between their
appearances. They have 2900mm wide body constructed by steel, featuring
high seating floor. Their cab end profile features reminiscent of streamlined
European trains of the 1930s, employing double column windscreen. They
are equipped with a 1000mm wide single-leaf door and small fixed windows
per each seat on each side of their body. Steps describing a curve for
the floor are located at the doorway. A gangway bridge between right and
left steps is laid in order to move between vehicles easily and introduce
food services using service trolleys. Their livery is metallic green with
the single gold waistline band running the length of each car below the
windows. "Yufuin No Mori" nameplates are applied to the front
and side of every vehicle. Four air conditioners, AU614K, rated at 9,000
kcal/h are fitted under the floor.
Bogies
Motored bogies are DT602K applied to Kiha72 2, and DT603K applied to the other vehicles. Trailer bogies are TR602K applied to each vehicle. These bogies feature bolster-less air secondary suspension, corn-shaped multilayered rubber spring journal supporting system, the single tread brake device, and the yaw dampers to ensure smooth ride characteristics even at 120km/h. Motored bogies feature 2-axle drive.
Traction unit and ancillary equipments
Kiha72 2 is powered by two diesel prime movers, DMF13HZA, with a power
output of 450PS, and the other vehicles are powered by one DMF13HZA. Their
hydraulic transmission gears are R-DW4, featuring the claw clutch mechanism
instead of friction-disc clutch and two-staged direct coupled range to
achieve high mechanical efficiency of power transmission. The brake system
is the electric command pneumatic brake.
Accommodation
Passenger accommodation is reclining seating with 1000mm seating pitch.
Kiha72 3 also has a buffet and 4 transverse seating bays with a wooden
centre table. Wooden armrests and wooden floor are also employed. Kiha72
2 is equipped with a western style unisex toilet and a western style woman
only toilet featuring vacuum toilet system. Kiha72 3 is equipped with a
universal access toilet.
Last Development
JR Kyushu delivered class kisaha72 for the additional capacity in 2015. This vehicle does not have any doorway and any prime mover. Passenger accommodation is reclining seating with 1000mm seating pitch. Baggage racks are fitted inside the passenger saloon. It is also equipped with a western toilet, a flushing urinal, and a washroom. This introduction causes the reclassification of kiha72 4 into kiha72 5.
Latest operation status
Kiha72 series DMU are now used on the "Yufuin No Mori" intercity
services linking Hakata and Yufuin. |
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